Apple is planning to launch an enhanced version of its AirPlay streaming technology in September, according to a new report from The Telegraph. Called “AirPlay Direct,” the new version of AirPlay would allow users to wirelessly stream music without the need of a WiFi network.

Instead, iOS devices would be able to create their own ad-hoc-style networks with AirPlay-enabled accessories and peripherals.

Sources familiar with the iPhone-maker’s plans said that Apple wants to improve the AirPlay wireless music streaming technology, which currently requires Airplay speakers and a WiFi network. The new version will require just speakers or a hifi and an iDevice; the iPhone, iPod or iPad would form its own network to allow a direct connection and music playback.

AirPlay Direct will allegedly be announced alongside the next iPhone at Apple’s rumored September 12th event, according to the report. The name “AirPlay Direct” is a working title, so the name could very well change before the 12th. Apple could simply call it “AirPlay 2.0’ or something along those lines.

The report also notes that the next iPod’s connector will be changed to help push AirPlay:

Apple is also expected to combine a change in size for the iPod connector, used widely on docks, with a new push for Airplay streaming. This means docks will no longer require the iPod to be physically connected, bringing them into line with Android docks, which usually use BlueTooth for music playback.

Apple is expected to implement a smaller dock connector across its entire iOS device lineup, but the rollout will probably not happen all at once. Technologies like AirPlay and iCloud put less of a focus on physical syncing, so it makes sense for Apple to place less importance on the dock connector moving forward.

The whole point of being able to sync via wireless is to cut the cable it would be nice to see a bigger and better push that way. Built in charging technology and charging pad so you could just set your iDevice down and sync (no cable needed to charge or sync).

Bulldogger123

Built in charging technology and charging pad so you could just set your iDevice down and sync (no cable needed to charge or sync).

Wireless charging would be awesome, but wireless syncing already exists!

MacSnaps

Hello massive data bills… useless.

menithings

Hopefully we’ll see Wifi-less Airplay adapted for the AppleTV (or a version in the future). I have a pretty fast network and still get plenty of stuttering when Airplaying data intensive media from my iPad (and now Mac) to the ATV.

iSteve

The iPhone event is not scheduled for 12th september? Correct me if I’m mistaken.

appleguyjoe

I cant wait to see the Enhanced AirPlay shown off. To read more about Apple, check out thechurchofapple.com

Andrew Newsome

Hello massive data bills… useless.

What does this have to do with data bills? wow

ImMansor

wow this is awesome

Jshertok

Did Airplay Direct ever come out?

About the author

Alex Heath is a journalist and co-host of The CultCast who lives in Lexington, Kentucky . He has been quoted by the likes of the BBC, KRON 4 News, and books like "ICONIC: A Photographic Tribute to Apple Innovation." If you want to pitch a story, share a tip, or just get in touch, additional contact information is available on his personal site. Twitter always works too.

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